The Emergence of the Modern Swing: Bowlers Holding Their Own Bats

The Growing Trend of Bowlers Scoring Runs

In modern cricket, bowlers are increasingly expected to be proficient with the bat, especially in white-ball matches. This trend was on display during South Africa's T20I series against India, where bowlers like Keshav Maharaj and Tristan Stubbs made significant contributions with the bat.

Keshav Maharaj's Comeback

Keshav Maharaj's recent performance has been remarkable, after scoring a duck in his previous four international innings, including against India in the first match of the T20I series at Kingsmead. Maharaj's batting efforts have been crucial in South Africa's tense wins, highlighting the importance of bowlers being able to hold their own with the bat.

The Contrast with Allrounders

Unlike bowlers, allrounders like Hardik Pandya are expected to perform both with the bat and the ball. Pandya's 45-ball 39 not out in the second T20I against India showcased his ability to play a crucial role in a difficult innings.

The Reversal of Roles

A generation ago, wicketkeepers were primarily selected for their batting prowess. However, the tide has turned, with frontline batters being turned into keepers. England's Ben Foakes is a prime example, who has scored centuries and fifties in his Test career, but has also been surpassed by Jonny Bairstow and Jos Buttler in the batting stakes.

The Shape of Cricket

The ever-changing nature of cricket has led to the expectation of bowlers contributing with the bat. In most Test innings (68.19%), teams have been bowled out, which is why bowlers are now expected to be proficient with the bat.

Arshdeep Singh's Take

Indian bowler Arshdeep Singh believes that a flat wicket and medium-paced bowlers make it easier for him to contribute with the bat. He emphasizes the importance of a team contributing well in all three aspects – batting, bowling, and fielding.

Conversations in the Dressing Room

Bowlers in the South African team, like Marco Jansen, have revealed that they often have conversations about their batting in team meetings, with a focus on how to positively contribute to the situation. This shift in approach reflects the acceptance that bowlers can play a crucial role in securing victories.

The Legacy of Bowlers Turning the Tide

Bowler-intervener dramas are not new to cricket. Shaun Pollock recalls a memorable instance at the Wanderers in 2006 when Jacques Kallis made a tongue-in-cheek comment, implying that the bowlers had done their job. Little did the Aussies know that Makhaya Ntini would walk in next and single-handedly keep the winning momentum on track.